Ahmad Aghus facilitating Standing on the Line exercise
Youth violence in Indonesia is an escalating concern, with recent incidents in Semarang and Yogyakarta demonstrating the urgent need for sustainable solutions. In response, Peace Place Pati, a pioneer in peacebuilding and education, organized a transformative Alternatives to Violence Project (AVP) training. The program empowered aspiring facilitators to promote peace and reconciliation in their communities through innovative, trauma-informed approaches.
In mid-2024, Semarang witnessed over 80 violent incidents involving teenage gang members, prompting authorities to impose curfews and conduct nightly patrols. Similarly, ethnic tensions in Yogyakarta erupted into riots, exacerbating intergroup distrust. These incidents highlight the critical importance of peace education programs that transcend traditional school-based efforts and directly engage youth in their communities.
The AVP Justice and Peace methodology, practiced by Peace Place Pati since 2011, emphasizes collaboration, empathy, and shared purpose. Rooted in principles of nonviolence and inclusivity, AVP Justice and Peace workshops offer a safe environment for participants to explore conflict resolution techniques and build meaningful connections. Through activities that encourage trust and understanding, participants learn to dismantle cycles of violence and cultivate positive peace.
Established in 2011 by Petrus and Nanik, Peace Place Pati has become a vital hub for AVP initiatives in Indonesia. The center, which includes a training hall, Joglo preschool, and a peace library, has extended its influence nationwide. Beyond AVP training, Peace Place Pati develops innovative curricula that integrate peace, justice, and disability-friendly principles into early childhood education. Its peace libraries in Surakarta, Pati, and Papua further enrich communities with tools for learning and reconciliation. Alumni of Peace Place Pati have conducted peacebuilding activities across Indonesia, spreading its impactful methodologies to diverse regions.
A Unique Training Experience
The recent three-day AVP Justice and Peace workshop was held at Wisata Edukasi Kopi D’Kenji, nestled in the serene mountains of Muria, Central Java. This eco-friendly venue, renowned for its commitment to sustainable agriculture and community empowerment, provided an ideal backdrop for the training. Participants not only gained facilitation skills but also learned from the venue’s inspiring practices in environmental and social resilience.
The training, led by three experienced core facilitators, introduced 11 intern facilitators to the nuances of AVP Justice and Peace facilitation. The program featured hands-on practice, mentorship, and discussions tailored to build confidence and competence. Participants engaged in:
- Facilitation Practice: Intern facilitators led sessions with real-time feedback from mentors.
- Skill Development: Modules covered team building, time management, emotional intelligence, and adapting facilitation to diverse audiences.
- Reflective Discussions: Post-session debriefs allowed facilitators to analyze their performance and share insights.
Host and tenant. 2 November 2024, at Wisata Kopi D’Kenzi. Photo’s: Nanik
Intern facilitators came from varied backgrounds, including university students, preschool teachers, and community peace workers. Representing different ethnicities, religions, and regions, their diversity enriched the training with unique perspectives and experiences. By emphasizing inclusivity, the workshop modeled the principles of peacebuilding it aimed to instill.
Participants faced challenges such as managing large audiences, adapting instructions for different contexts, and overcoming nervousness. These hurdles were addressed through tailored mentorship, role-playing exercises, and team clinics. Facilitators practiced strategies like group division for audience management and using concise, clear instructions.
Immediate Impact in Communities
The training’s success was evident as newly trained facilitators quickly organized workshops in their communities:
- In Pati: Preschool teachers collaborated with Tomodachi, a local reading community, to host a storytelling workshop, Power of Goodness in the Tondomulyo Village at Jakenan Sub district Pati.
- In Semarang: University students led a “Power of Goodness” workshop for their peers.
- In Yogyakarta: Facilitators held sessions for student organizations and the public, fostering dialogue on peace and reconciliation.
These workshops reached participants across age groups and contexts, underscoring the adaptability of AVP Justice and Peace methods. Participants reported significant growth in conflict management skills, emotional self-regulation, and active listening. Mentorship and reflective discussions proved invaluable, enhancing facilitators’ confidence and ability to lead. Beyond technical skills, the program fostered a sense of purpose, with many facilitators expressing a commitment to spreading peace education in their communities.
Peace Place Pati’s AVP Justice and Peace training exemplifies how grassroots initiatives can address systemic issues like youth violence. By equipping facilitators with practical tools and fostering a culture of empathy and collaboration, the program contributes to a more harmonious society.
Peacebuilding requires people being willing to listen, learn, and act. If you want to participate in or support Peace Place Pati’s work, contact Peace Place Pati. With your involvement, more communities can access the tools they need to build trust, resolve conflict, and create a more equitable society.
Ario and Ahmad Salahudin, Presentation: analyzed stories of nonviolence for their turning points. 2 November 2024. Wisata Kopi D’Kenzi Muria Mountain.. Photo:Petrus